Deon Mitchell had 12 points for the Panthers (23-2, 12-1 Missouri Valley Conference), who matched top-ranked Kentucky with their 23rd win. Only Gonzaga has more wins than the Panthers, who haven't lost since New Year's Day.

Northern Iowa built a 17-point halftime lead, tied for its largest of the season, and cruised to its 16th straight home win.

Daishon Knight had 16 points for Illinois State (15-10, 7-6). The Redbirds let Northern Iowa rack up a season high in points for a game that ended in regulation.